Sensory Friendly FAQ

Sensory Friendly/Relaxed (SF/R) shows are geared towards patrons with sensory sensitivity. These performances are part of our Family Series. The subject matter is geared towards patrons with the developmental age of 4-8.

Sensory Friendly/Relaxed shows typically last around an hour with no intermission.

We will have areas in the lobby where one can take a break from the show if needed. The lobby has a television to still watch the show. Guests are welcome to go outside if they prefer-one can enter/exit the theater at any time.

Alterations are based upon the show. SF/R shows typically feature a reduction of loud sound levels and overwhelming stage lighting. You are welcome to bring your own earplugs/headphones if you want. Call our box office at (714) 556-2787 closer to the show to find out specific alterations. We are open daily from 10am-6pm (subject to change).

Samueli Theater is a small, intimate theater. You can see the stage clearly from any seat location. The seats will be situated in a riser format and will feature 3 aisles to allow patrons to easily enter/exit the theater. The seats will be spaced slightly apart to allow for extra movement. There will be low ambient lighting throughout the performance so patrons are able to see should they need to move around or exit the theater.

Click here to view the seating chart

All are welcome to talk and move around as much as needed during the performance. No one will be asked to step into the lobby; silence and stillness are not prerequisites for SF/R shows. We want our guests to be as comfortable as possible during the performance.

We will have Pre-Visit Stories available to download on our website closer to the show. These preparation materials will have pictures so guests know what to expect when they come to the theater. Our lobby/theater will also be open an hour before the show so guests can come early to acclimate themselves to the space.

Guests are welcome to use any mobile device for communication in the theater. Please note, however, that photographing or videotaping the performance on a mobile device is not allowed.

We have plenty of wheelchair/mobility device locations located in the loft to accommodate for patrons using wheelchairs/mobility devices. Please let us know if anyone in your party is using a wheelchair/mobility device so we can make arrangements.

All of our ushers and box office staff are trained in assisting individuals with sensory sensitivities. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. You will recognize our staff as those who are wearing an orange tie and a charcoal gray vest.

Guests are welcome to bring any food/drinks/hand fidgets into sensory friendly performances.

Tickets can be purchased online (click here), by calling our ticket office at (714) 556-2787 or by visiting our box office. Please note that online sales incur an 11% processing fee and phone sales incur a 13% processing fee. Our customer service specialists will help you choose the most appropriate seating locations for your needs and will answer any questions so you can be prepared when you attend the performance. Tickets are available for individual shows or multiple shows can be bought as a subscription package.

We are committed to making our venues accessible to all. We offer wheelchair and wheelchair transfer locations in every hall. We offer many services for patrons with disabilities like assistive listening devices, large print programs, binoculars, Open Captioning, ASL Interpretation and Audio Description. Visit scfta.org/accessibilityinformation to learn more. 

For any other questions, please email access@scfta.org or call our ticket office at (714) 556-2787.